Your child is given a present. This could be from a friend, relative, a neighbor – it doesn’t matter. The point is, your child’s reaction to receiving the present has mortified you in some way. You are convinced that the gift giver now thinks you are a bad parent, and that you have an ungrateful child.

The sweet little baby who used to babble and crawl all over your house is now face down on the dining room floor, screaming and pounding her fists. If you’re like most parents, you are probably watching this scene unfold and wondering “How exactly did we get here?”

A new baby is on the way – or – you’re about to move into a new home – or – one of the kids has decided they’re tired of the color scheme in their room. It’s happened to me, and if you’re reading this, I’m sure it’s happening to you too. It’s time to decorate!